A nationwide study has revealed that more than half of Indians who report nasal discomfort are suffering not from a lingering cold but from allergic rhinitis, underscoring a widespread yet under-recognized health challenge.
Misdiagnosed as the Common Cold
Doctors say the condition, often dismissed as seasonal sniffles, is in fact a chronic allergic reaction triggered by dust, pollen, or pollution. Because its symptoms—sneezing, congestion, and irritation—mirror those of viral infections, patients frequently misinterpret the illness, delaying proper care.
Consequences Beyond Discomfort
While many view rhinitis as a minor nuisance, experts warn it can disrupt sleep, impair concentration, and aggravate conditions such as asthma. “This is not just a passing irritation,” one allergist said. “When untreated, it can erode quality of life for years.”
Rising Burden Amid Pollution
Specialists note that India’s worsening air quality and urban living patterns are fueling the rise of allergic conditions. Without wider awareness and early intervention, they caution, the burden could grow sharply in the coming years.
Call for Awareness and Policy Action
The study’s authors urge stronger public health messaging, improved diagnostic tools, and training for primary physicians. Lifestyle changes, allergen management, and preventive medication, they say, could help millions of Indians manage the condition before it worsens into more serious respiratory problems.
